Precipice
noun /ˈpres.ɪ.pɪs/ — A very steep cliff or dangerous edge
Definition
A very steep, near-vertical cliff face — or figuratively, the edge of a terrible danger or irreversible decision. The moment before the fall.
Beyond the definition
The word for standing somewhere you cannot easily step back from. A precipice is not just a feature of landscape — it is a condition of mind.
Origin & history
From Latin 'praecipitium' (a steep place) — from 'praeceps' (headlong, steep) — 'prae' (before) + 'caput' (head). The place where you could go headlong.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
They stood at the precipice of the gorge, the valley floor impossibly far below.
The country stood at a political precipice — one more incident and everything would change.
A precipice makes ordinary life look entirely different. You understand what you value when you stand at the edge.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Precipice” when the meaning fits your context: A very steep, near-vertical cliff face — or figuratively, the edge of a terrible danger or irreversible decision. The moment before the fall.
Synonyms
cliff, brink, verge, abyss, edge
Antonyms
valley, plain, safety
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Precipice" mean?
Precipice is noun meaning: A very steep cliff or dangerous edge. A very steep, near-vertical cliff face — or figuratively, the edge of a terrible danger or irreversible decision. The moment before the fall.
Which words express “in danger of losing everything”?
Precipice — A very steep cliff or dangerous edge
Where does the word "Precipice" come from?
From Latin 'praecipitium' (a steep place) — from 'praeceps' (headlong, steep) — 'prae' (before) + 'caput' (head). The place where you could go headlong.